2. TIM DUNCAN’s RENAISSANCE
Tim Duncan is playing like he’s 25 again, and it hasn’t changed the Spurs pace of play at all. Sure, they’re out of the top ten in pace, but they’re still tied for No. 14. That’s not a huge drop off from last year (seventh in the NBA). Duncan is functioning in the Spurs offense that wore him down over the past few seasons. He’s averaging 18.2 points, 10.4 rebounds and 2.5 blocks per game. He’s providing the Spurs with an anchor on both ends of the floor and I know Gregg Popovich loves that.

Duncan contemplated retirement over the last few seasons. He just signed a two-year deal with the Spurs, but we know he wants to remain with this team once his career is over. Maybe he’s giving more effort this season because this is his last hurrah? We’ll find out soon enough, but for now let’s be thankful for what we’re seeing here.

1.MIKE D’ANTONI REUNITING WITH STEVE NASH
Last but not least, Steve Nash is back with his partner in crime, Mike D’Antoni. Of course, Nash isn’t on the floor right now because of injury but once he returns we’ll get to see a bit of the magic that won Steve Nash two MVPs when this pair was together.

Sure, they’re in Los Angeles now and the offense will probably be slightly different because of all the extra firepower they have. That doesn’t mean it won’t be as exciting. Really, we’re replacing Amar’e Stoudemire with Dwight Howard and Shawn Marion with Kobe Bryant. That’s an upgrade.

Seeing Steve Nash on a stacked L.A. team is something we’re excited for, but seeing him with the coach that brought out the best in him is probably something that we should be straight giddy for. Showtime is finally returning to Los Angeles.